In 1994 Leana Fay created a Glory banner that hung spectacularly in the Sacred Arts Exhibit at the Billy Graham Center. The exhibit was co-sponsored by First Presbyterian, and our members were enthralled with the banner’s joyous power.

On December 15, 1996, wise and wonderful Jack Strunk, one of our dearest and most active members, died suddenly. Jack was a passionate Christian . . . a liturgist, and a riveting teacher of the Bible who voraciously studied The Word and understood it deeply. Two weeks before his death Jack had just finished presenting a study series entitled "The Bible from Scratch." His goal was to bring the Bible to life and to bring people closer to God. As a member of the Worship Planning Committee, and as an earthy as well as a spiritual man, he pursued complete  worship and encouraged the use of creative music, visuals (even incense) to offer praise to God.

Finding a memorial suitable to this extraordinary man required a bit of time; but in 1998 Leana Fay was approached to create a banner after I consulted with Jack’s wife, Betty. Leana agreed to the project, but we were on a long list. Good things are worth the wait.

About a year later, the project commenced; but Leana had been stricken with lung cancer and could only work on the piece when her strength allowed. She was so determined to see that this tribute be completed. Her optimism and faith were boundless and inspiring.

In December of 2001, Leana left us to be with God. The banner was incomplete and remained at her home . . .beautiful but unfinished . . .and there it stayed for some time. I had something in mind and called Leana’s husband, Peter, for approval. If he would say yes, I had an artist in mind to complete the banner . . . Timothy Botts . . . the designer of our rotunda entrance piece. Not only were Tim and Leana highly respected master calligraphers, but to my amazement, they were also dear friends! Tim took on the project with love and without hesitation.

It is one thing to conceive an artistic idea, but no one has quite the complete vision of the creator. Tim completed the banner in a vertical format. Leana had conceived a horizontal banner. The lower "Glory," part of Leana’s original work, reads upside down. I would like to think it is looking up to heaven. Jack would have loved the quirkiness of that.

This banner is a gift from Jack back to the congregation, and it reflects Jack’s mission here on earth. . . Glory to God!     

 -- Kathy Young, Gifts and Memorials